The sport of basketball offers a terrific way to stay physically fit and also serves as one of the most popular spectator sports around. But, to really gain the sort of benefits from basketball that you desire, a big of education is in order. Keep reading to gain some wonderful basketball tips and pointers.
Never adopt the attitude that the shoes make the player. The latest and supposedly greatest basketball shoes on the market are probably overrated and not truly tested. They also are likely made in the same factory as cheaper shoes that aren’t name brand. Just focus on a decent pair of shoes and the concentrate on your skills.
Proper aim is crucial when trying to make baskets. Ideally, you should aim for the small square found on the backboard. Doing this increases your chances of the ball actually going down the basket. Avoid trying to aim for the next; you are less likely to be successful when doing so.
Being a good player isn’t all about displaying physical skills and making all the shots. There is a lot of mental preparation that goes into being a team player. Don;t just focus on what you can do to be better but think about what you can do to be a better team member too.
It is important that you protect the ball if you have it. Dribble to the side to ensure that no one can steal it from you. If no one is nearby, you can dribble in front, but be sure to take it to the side if someone approaches you or you go for the net.
Try practicing dribbling between your legs. Dribble hard and then walk over the ball, continuing the dribble when it is behind you with your other arm. When you use this trick on the court, you will find that your competitors don’t know what to do to get the ball from you.
When you’re practicing passing, try to look the other way. This is a simple thing that could easily confuse your opponents. By looking in the opposite direction, your teammate has a few extra seconds to make the shot. It’s a powerful play when done right.
A bounce pass is a good option if you are being heavily defended by one opponent. A defender who does not see the bounce pass coming will be thrown off his game. Keep your bounce passes as simple as possible to avoid a turnover. This maneuver helps get the ball to a teammate who is in a better position to score.
Make sure that the pace changes when you are on defense. As you are heading towards the net, straighten up and plant down your foot. The offense will believe that you’re stopping or slowing down and may follow in your steps. You should push and get past them as they straighten themselves.
An appreciation of basketball can lead you toward heightened physical fitness or just a fun way to spend time with friends and family. Learning all you can about basketball can open the door to an entirely new lifestyle. Keep the above information and advice close at hand and start taking full advantage of everything basketball can offer.